Egyptian government blocks at least 62 websites since May 24, including VPN services

Event

The Egyptian government has reportedly cut access to 62 websites since May 24, including VPN services, as of Sunday, June 11. Websites affected by the ban include the widely read Al-Borsa financial paper, independent news site Daily News, and the publishing platform "Medium." The government has accused the websites of supporting terrorism and spreading false news.Civil rights groups have denounced the recent crackdown on Egyptian media as unconstitutional and protests are possible in the coming days and weeks.

Context

Some analysts claim the ban has been implemented as a means to stifle political opposition ahead of Egypt's 2018 presidential election, while others state it is a way to draw attention from a controversial plan to transfer two Red Sea islands to Saudi Arabia.

Advice

Individuals in Egypt are advised to monitor the situation.

The security environment in Egypt remains complex. Although travel is permissible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel. Due to the high risk of terrorist attacks and kidnapping, some Western governments advise their citizens against travel to North Sinai province.

GardaWorld is the world’s largest privately owned security company, offering transportation and cash vault services, physical and specialized security solutions and, with the Crisis24 portal, the dissemination of verified information pertaining to international security. We protect your people and property, wherever they are in the world.

You’ve heard or seen news reports about mass shootings. This events, often referred to as Active Shooter incidents, are they are on the rise. In an Active Shooter incident your life could depend on knowing how to react. GardaWorld’s online Active Shooter training could make all the difference.